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Overview
Paxos (Paxi) and Antipaxos (Antipaxi) are two small Ionian islands belonging to Greece, situated roughly 13 km south of Corfu and visible on clear days from the Albanian and northwestern Greek coastline. Despite their modest size — Paxos is only about 25 km² — they punch well above their weight in natural beauty and atmosphere.
Paxos has three main villages: the capital Gaios, the fishing hamlet of Loggos, and the hillside settlement of Lakka in the north. All three cluster around natural harbors and are connected by a single main road threading through centuries-old olive groves. The island has no airport, which has historically kept visitor numbers manageable and preserved a quieter character than many Greek island destinations.
Antipaxos lies roughly 2 km south of Paxos. It is very lightly inhabited year-round, with the population swelling only in summer. Its two main beaches — Vrika and Voutoumi — are consistently cited among the most beautiful in the Ionian Sea, with shallow, intensely turquoise water over white sand. Most visitors come as day-trippers from Paxos.
A note on geography: Paxos and Antipaxos are Greek islands administered under the Ionian Islands regional unit of Greece. They are not part of Albania. The Albanian Riviera and the port of Sarandë lie across the Ionian/Adriatic channel and are a separate destination. Travelers researching the Albanian coast should consult a guide specific to that country.
Before You Go
Visas and Entry
Paxos and Antipaxos are part of Greece and therefore within the European Union and the Schengen Area. Entry requirements depend on your nationality and are subject to change. Check TravelerPulse's Visas section and consult the official Greek immigration authority or your country's embassy before travel.
When to Go
- May–June: Pleasant temperatures, blooming landscape, quieter harbors, most businesses open.
- July–August: Peak season; Gaios and Antipaxos beaches can become very busy, particularly when day-trip boats arrive from Corfu. Book accommodation well in advance.
- September–October: Arguably the best balance of warm sea temperatures, reduced crowds, and comfortable daytime heat.
- November–April: Most accommodation and restaurants close. Ferry services are reduced. Not recommended unless you are specifically seeking solitude or off-season hiking.
What to Pack
Light summer clothing dominates most of the season, but bring a layer for evenings and for boat trips where sea breezes can be cool. Sturdy sandals or water shoes are useful for rocky cove entries. Sunscreen is essential; shade is limited on Antipaxos beaches.
Getting There
By Air
Paxos has no airport. The most common approach is to fly into Corfu International Airport (CFU) and then take a ferry or water taxi onward. Some travelers also fly to Preveza/Lefkada (PVK) or Ioannina on the Greek mainland and travel by road and ferry combination.
By Ferry from Corfu
Seasonal ferry and hydrofoil services operate between Corfu (typically from the New Port) and Gaios, the main port of Paxos. Journey times and frequency vary by season and operator. Verify current schedules and book ahead in peak season — verify locally or on the operator's official site, as timetables change year to year.
By Ferry from Igoumenitsa (Greek mainland)
Igoumenitsa is the nearest mainland port and offers another ferry option to Paxos. Road connections to Igoumenitsa from Athens or Thessaloniki are well-established; the town also has international ferry links to Italy.
Water Taxis and Day-Trip Boats
Private water taxis can be arranged from Corfu, though costs are significantly higher than scheduled ferries. Day-trip excursion boats from Corfu often include stops at Antipaxos beaches — a popular option if you have limited time.
Getting Around
Paxos is small enough that many visitors explore primarily on foot, by bicycle, or by scooter. A single paved road connects Gaios, Loggos, and Lakka, with smaller tracks leading to beaches and olive groves.
- Scooters and small cars can be rented in Gaios; book ahead in July and August as supply is limited.
- Local taxis operate on the island; the dispatcher in Gaios is the main contact point — ask at your accommodation for current details.
- Boat hire (with or without a skipper) is popular for reaching sea caves on the west coast and the beaches of Antipaxos. Several outfitters operate from Gaios harbor; verify availability and pricing locally.
- Antipaxos is reached by regular summer water-taxi services from Gaios, or by hired boat. There is no public bus service between the two islands. Verify current schedules on arrival in Gaios.
Things to See & Do
Sea Caves (Spilia)
The dramatic west coast of Paxos is riddled with sea caves carved into the limestone cliffs, most famously Hypapanti, Ortholithos, and the large cave at Kastanida. These are best accessed by boat; many rental operators offer guided cave tours. The interplay of light on the water inside the larger caves is a genuine highlight.
Antipaxos Beaches
Vrika and Voutoumi beaches on Antipaxos offer exceptionally clear, shallow turquoise water. Voutoumi in particular is set in a cove below terraced vineyards. Both beaches have some seasonal facilities (sunbeds, a basic taverna), but arrive early in high season as day-trip boats make them busy by late morning.
Walking the Olive Groves
Paxos has an estimated 300,000 olive trees, many centuries old, and a network of kalderimi (old stone paths) threads through the groves. The route from Loggos toward the interior or from Lakka south offers peaceful, shaded walking. A locally produced walking map is available in Gaios.
Village Exploration
- Gaios has a Venetian-era feel, a small central square, and a harbor front that is pleasant in the evening.
- Loggos is the smallest of the three villages, known for its tavernas and intimate harbor.
- Lakka sits at the head of a sheltered bay popular with sailing yachts, with a small beach and good tavernas.
Boat Trips
Full- or half-day boat hire is one of the most popular activities. A typical itinerary combines the west coast caves, a circumnavigation of the island, and time at Antipaxos beaches.
Food & Drink
Eating on Paxos revolves around straightforward Greek taverna cooking with a strong emphasis on fresh fish and seafood. Grilled octopus, fresh-caught fish sold by weight, and traditional mezedes (small dishes) are staples. Vegetable dishes, salads, and pulses are widely available.
All three villages — Gaios, Loggos, and Lakka — have a cluster of tavernas around their waterfronts. Quality is generally reliable; the island's small size and discerning repeat-visitor base tend to keep standards up. Prices are broadly in line with Greek island averages, though verify locally as these fluctuate.
Antipaxos produces its own wine, primarily from Verdea grapes, in very small quantities. You may find local wine offered at the beach taverna on the island or in some Paxos establishments — worth trying as a regional curiosity. Olive oil from Paxiot groves is also a local product of note.
For self-catering, small grocery shops in Gaios stock basics. Fresh produce, bread, and fish arrive by boat; selection can be limited on days of poor weather when supply boats are delayed.
Practical Information
Money
Paxos has ATMs in Gaios; verify availability in Loggos and Lakka locally, and carry some cash as a backup since smaller tavernas and boat hire operations may be cash-only or have unreliable card terminals.
Health
There is a small medical center on Paxos; for serious medical needs, evacuation to Corfu or the Greek mainland would be required. Travel health insurance that covers medical evacuation is strongly recommended.
Connectivity
Mobile coverage from Greek networks is generally available across Paxos, though it can be patchy in more remote coves and on the water. Wi-Fi is offered by most accommodation providers and many tavernas.
Emergency Numbers
In Greece, the general emergency number is 112 (EU-wide). Verify locally whether a specific coast guard or medical contact is recommended for the island.
Sustainability
Antipaxos beaches can show the pressure of high day-trip volume in peak season. Take all litter away with you, avoid anchoring on seagrass beds if on a private boat, and consider visiting outside July–August to reduce impact.
Safety
Paxos and Antipaxos are considered very safe destinations with low rates of crime. Standard travel precautions apply: secure valuables, don't leave items unattended on beaches, and keep a copy of your travel documents separate from the originals.
The main practical safety consideration is on the water. The Ionian Sea can experience strong afternoon winds (especially the maestro wind from the northwest) that build quickly. If hiring a boat independently, check weather forecasts before departure and follow local advice; conditions around the exposed west coast caves can change faster than anticipated. Wear life jackets when provided.
Sun and heat exposure are real risks in summer. Stay hydrated, use high-SPF sunscreen, and be aware that shade is limited on Antipaxos beaches and boat trips.
